It is imperative to notify the University of Calgary Body Donation Program of a passing as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. We must receive the body within 72 hours from the time of death.
A representative of the program is available 24/7 and can be reached by contacting 403-220-6950 and selecting option #1. If the call is time sensitive our contracted funeral service provider, Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services, can be reached directly at 403-216-5111.
Acceptance into the Program
Donation eligibility is confirmed during the initial phone call notifying us of a death and is based on the established exclusion criteria. Due to the sensitive nature of this process, we can only speak with the legal next of kin, executor, or medical professionals.
If accepted, we will arrange for the transfer of the donor into the university’s care and provide documentation to the next of kin or executor. If the donation is declined, alternate arrangements must be made by the family or executor.
Pre-registration is welcome but not required for donation.
After Acceptance
After an individual has been accepted into the Cumming School of Medicine's Body Donation Program, the executor or next of kin will be required to complete documents related to body donation. For convenience, we can send electronic copies via email or fax, or meet with the family at the Foothills Campus.
These documents include a UCalgary Body Donation Program Donation Consent Form to confirm the donation as well as plans following the end of the study; a Donor Demographics Form to gather all necessary vital statistic information to register the passing with the province of Alberta; and a Cremation Authorization Form required to proceed with cremation of the donor once their time with the program has been completed.
